Author: Charlie Garrett

Sunday, 11 August 2019

Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace. James 3:18

In the previous verse, James described “the wisdom that is from above.” In his list, he said that it is “full of mercy and good fruits.” Now he takes that concept to discuss one of those fruits, beginning with, “Now the fruit of righteousness.”

This is a term found first in the book of Proverbs. There Solomon says –

“The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life,
And he who wins souls is wise.” Proverbs 11:30

It is seen again in Amos –

“Do horses run on rocks?
Does one plow there with oxen?
Yet you have turned justice into gall,
And the fruit of righteousness into wormwood.” Amos 6:12

The term is found elsewhere in the Old Testament in various forms, and it is found several more times in various forms in the New Testament. Paul speaks of it in Philippians 1:11 –

“…being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.”

James is taking these examples from the body of literature he was aware of (meaning the Old Testament), and he is using them to express in his own way the words of Jesus from the Sermon on the Mount. There Jesus said –

“Blessed are the peacemakers,

For they shall be called sons of God.” Matthew 5:9

Jesus speaks of those who make peace, and the result of that. This continues with his words which explain that the fruit of righteousness “is sown in peace by those who make peace.” One must sow in order to have something come up from the soil. When one plants in peace (contrasted to the “envy and self-seeking” of verse 3:15), the fruit of righteousness will spring forth.

The sense of James’ words is that there is a plant (or tree) called “Righteousness.” That is what will spring forth when planted by those who make peace. When peace is made, the sowing of Righteousness is done in peace, and the result of that process issues forth Righteousness. This is the heavenly wisdom which arises and it is revealed in the many traits mentioned in verse 3:17.

Life application: Just as a sower needs good soil and the right conditions for his grain to be plentiful, James says that we will produce a harvest of righteousness when we sow in peace. Sowing seed in an environment of envy and self-seeking leads to chaos and complete dissatisfaction in our lives.

But if we turn our attitude towards peace and contentment instead, what will spring forth is a righteous life which is honoring to God. The amazing thing about this is that so many people hear this type of admonition week after week in sermons and then walk out of the church with their ears still closed to the very message that can actually bring about the joy they are missing in their lives.

Jesus didn’t speak his words for “somebody else,” and James isn’t relaying this message for “another time and place.” These things pertain to our lives, right here and right now. The world we live in is materialistically centered, and our priorities get completely out of whack with envy as new innovations come out almost daily. Our eyes are never satisfied with what we have and there is simply no peace in our lives.

But if we can just set aside these motivations and seek after peace and contentment, there we will find the better harvest James speaks about. We are only given one chance to get this life right, so look to the wisdom James relates – your harvest will be wonderful.

Glorious God – turn us into peacemakers who bear good fruit in this life. May we not spend our time rushing after worldly possessions and chasing after the latest things. It is time for us to direct our eyes, our hearts, and our souls to raising a harvest of righteousness which will be to Your glory and for our eternal happiness. Hear our prayer, O God. Amen.

Saturday, 10 August 2019

But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. James 3:17

The previous verse spoke of confusion and every evil thing being present when one is envious and/or self-seeking. James now contrasts that with true wisdom. He says, “But the wisdom that is from above.” This then is heavenly wisdom, it is that which comes from God, and it is that which the follower of Christ is to apply to his life.

The first of such attributes is that it is “pure.” The word is hagnos. It signifies that which is free from ceremonial defilement. In the sacrificial system of Israel, all animals presented to the Lord were to be without blemish. Such animals looked forward in a physical reality to the spiritually pure Messiah to come. Christ came, born without sin, and He was perfectly pure and without any defilement. Thus, when He was presented to Israel, John the Baptist proclaimed in John 1:29, “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!”

Next, the wisdom from above is “peaceable.” It is a word which results from knowing the Lord’s will and then obeying it. It is reflective of Christ Jesus who said, “I can of Myself do nothing. As I hear, I judge; and My judgment is righteous, because I do not seek My own will but the will of the Father who sent Me” (John 5:30). Christ Jesus both knew the will of His Father, and He was obedient to that will. This then is our model to emulate.

James then adds that such wisdom is “gentle.” It gives the sense of being equitable. It is gentle as in being truly fair and following the spirit of the law because it notes what is really at stake. One can see this time and again in Christ who looked beyond the words themselves to an understanding of why the words were given, because He gave them. For example, He said in Mark 2:27, “The Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath.” Further in Matthew 12, He said, “But if you had known what this means, ‘I desire mercy and not sacrifice,’ you would not have condemned the guiltless. ⁸ For the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.”

James next adds to his list, “willing to yield.” It is a single word in the Greek which is found only here in the Bible. It signifies an attitude which is easy to come to terms with due to already being willing. One might say, “reasonable.” This does not mean, however, that it is a willingness to do something wrong in order to appease. Rather, it is always willing to yield in order to continue that which is right. A great example of this is found in Paul –

“For though I am free from all men, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win the more; ²⁰ and to the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might win Jews; to those who are under the law, as under the law, that I might win those who are under the law; ²¹ to those who are without law, as without law (not being without law toward God, but under law toward Christ), that I might win those who are without law; ²² to the weak I became as weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. ²³ Now this I do for the gospel’s sake, that I may be partaker of it with you.” 1 Corinthians 9:19-23

James continues with, “full of mercy.” One needs look no further than the example of the woman caught in adultery in John 8 to see this quality on display. It was Jesus, the Incarnate Lord, who gave the law. And yet, when asked how the matter should be handled, He chose to have the people around him evaluate themselves first. After they did, and realizing that they too were all guilty, we read –

“And Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. ¹⁰ When Jesus had raised Himself up and saw no one but the woman, He said to her, ‘Woman, where are those accusers of yours? Has no one condemned you?’ ¹¹ She said, ‘No one, Lord.’
And Jesus said to her, ‘Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more.’” John 8:10, 11

James moves next to “without partiality.” This is an extremely rare word. It is found only here in the Bible, and it is also rare even in classical Greek. It signifies “indistinguishable.” There is nothing uncertain or ambiguous involved. This is seen in the Lord when he would call out the fault of leaders while highlighting the right conduct of the common people. This was not showing favoritism of one category over the other, but he was bringing the state of both to a point where the leaders could see that they were, in fact, no better than those they judged unfairly – whether they acknowledged it or not. This was called for, explicitly, in the Law of Moses –

“You shall not show partiality in judgment; you shall hear the small as well as the great; you shall not be afraid in any man’s presence, for the judgment is God’s. The case that is too hard for you, bring to me, and I will hear it.” Deuteronomy 1:17

James finishes his list with “without hypocrisy.” The Greek word gives us a taste of the root of our modern word hypocrisy – anupokritos. It signifies that which is sincere and genuine. There is no hidden agenda behind the actions of the individual. The exact opposite is found in those who challenged Christ Jesus. In Luke 20:20, it says –

“So they watched Him, and sent spies who pretended to be righteous, that they might seize on His words, in order to deliver Him to the power and the authority of the governor.”

They pretended to be righteous in order to trap the Lord. On the contrary, Christ was always perfectly straightforward in all of His dealings with them, and with all people. James asks us to act in a like manner in this, and in all of the other characteristics he has noted.

Life application: In a short roundup of these words, we should seek the glory of God first and foremost. We should demonstrate the peace-loving attitude wisdom cries out for; our motives are pure. We should always demonstrate humility and a willingness to submit to those around us? By doing so, we show consideration for their station. This will, in turn, lead to peace in us.

Further, are we withholding our hand from bringing judgment on others even when they deserve it? God has been infinitely merciful to us and we need to act likewise to the greatest extent possible. Also, in Galatians 5, Paul says the fruits of the Spirit are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Are these qualities evident in our lives?

James would also have us to consider if we cover our eyes to status, color, wealth, etc. in other people when we make decisions? Christ did. He forgave men of every tribe, nation, and tongue. Let us demonstrate impartiality in all of our dealings with others. And in this, rather than selfish ambition, we should always demonstrate an attitude of complete sincerity when dealing with others. In the end, only God knows the truth of your sincerity, so make sure it is sincere even to the very core of your existence and He will reward you.

Yes Lord, fill us with the fruits of Your Spirit so that we may demonstrate the wisdom that comes from heaven. Take away our envy and selfish ambition and replace those things with the goodness that can only come from You. This we pray in the exalted and glorious name of Jesus! Amen.

Friday, 9 August 2019

For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. James 3:16

Apologies for not commentary being posted yesterday. I had no internet.

James now ties verses 14 and 15 together in thought –

14 – But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth.

15 – This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic.

16 – For where envy and self-seeking (14)  exist, confusion (connected to the false wisdom of verse 15a) and every evil thing (15b) are there.

The thoughts are all drawn together in a masterful explanation of the matter. If there is envy and self-seeking, there cannot be order and harmony. Rather only confusion will result. The word translated as “confusion” is one that speaks almost of anarchy. There is a breakdown of the moral sphere, and the result is disorder and a situation where anything is up for grabs.

In addition to this “every evil thing” will be there. The word translated as “evil” gives the sense of that which is vile. The breakdown of morality will inevitably lead to an unholy state, and actions which are completely opposed to that which is pure, moral, and upright.

Looking at the actions of those on the left in political matters forms an exceptionally good picture of what James has in mind. They deny that life in the womb is actually human life, and they vilify those who accept God’s norms of male and female as binding. On and on they continue down avenues of depravity, and it all began with envy and a self-seeking attitude.

James will contrast such things in the coming verses.

Life application: James has pretty much summed up the entire case for evil in the world – from the fall of man down to current times. It was envy of man’s favorable position as God’s image-bearer, and also selfish ambition that he could usurp God’s authority, which prompted the devil to bring about his rebellion. Likewise, Adam was tempted with prideful, selfish ambition and he was enticed to sin –

“You will not surely die. ⁵ For God knows that in the day you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” Genesis 3:4, 5

Since that time, man has been enticed into every evil practice through envy and/or selfish ambition. We now live in a relativistic world where ultimate truth is considered a myth and “all paths lead to God.” But this thought process stems directly from selfish ambition as well.

Rather than believing in man as having been created in God’s image, we follow a god created in man’s imagination. We do this because we ourselves want to be the ruler of our own fate and thus we become our own “god.” This only produces more disorder, which in turn produces more evil practices. Eventually, this can only lead to further chaos and discord.

This is where the world is heading, and the results are recorded in the book of Revelation – judgment on an unrepentant world. God has shown us His path to reconciliation; His one path. Outside of Jesus, there is only death and destruction, but in Him there is forgiveness and reconciliation. In Him alone are light, order, and every good thing.

Lord God, help us to be wise and discerning in our thoughts. Take away the darkness of envy and selfish ambition and replace it with the light of contentment and peace that is found in Jesus our Lord. This we pray so that others may come to understand the truth of Your gospel through us. Amen.

Wednesday, 7 August 2019

This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic. James 3:15

The previous verse spoke of having bitter envy and self-seeking in one’s heart. James now states that those things are opposed to that which is heavenly or godly. Rather, the opposite is true. He says, “This wisdom does not descend from above.”

The translation surely fails to convey the intended meaning. By saying “This wisdom,” it is implying that it is a type of wisdom, when it is, in fact, just the opposite. Rather, there is an article before “wisdom” and the Greek appears to more correctly read, “That is not the wisdom which comes down from above” (Weymouth NT). One way to retain the truth while maintaining the same basic structure of the NKJV would be to emphasize the word “wisdom” as the NIV does. They say, “Such ‘wisdom’ does not come down from heaven.” Thus it sets it apart as actually not being a type of wisdom.

Either way, there is a need to show that calling such an attitude “wisdom” is actually profaning the idea of the true wisdom which comes from God. What James referred to in the previous verse does not come from above, but it rather is “earthly.”

The idea here is that which is temporary and fading. That which is heavenly is eternal and will never change. When one looks to the earthly, he will grasp onto that which can benefit him “right now.” There is nothing truly long-term because this life is short and uncertain. Therefore, that which is earthly is naturally self-seeking.

He next says that it is “sensual.” This means that what is conveyed finds its source in what will fill the unspiritual, carnal desires of man rather than that which is logical and/or spiritual. It comes about from one’s inappropriate passions rather than a proper attitude concerning what is godly.

James then finishes with the thought that it is “demonic.” It is an adjective found only here in Scripture. It signifies that which resembles a demon or which is influenced by a demon. As Albert Barnes notes, “There may be indeed talent in it, but there is the intermingling of malignant passions, and it leads to contentions, strifes, divisions, and ‘every evil work.’”

One can see the three divisions of body, soul, and spirit here. The “spirit,” is not so much a separate entity, but it is the connection of the body and soul to God, or a lack of such a connection. If one is rightly connected to God, there will be no influence of the devil or demons. When he is not, there can be attacks upon the person, even a saved person.

Life application: Really think on those you look to for spiritual guidance. What are their motivations? You can’t always tell, and most people would not intentionally follow a deceiver. But it is right to evaluate each person carefully. Do you perceive them as pure and selfless? Would they be willing to stand in the same position if the money stopped flowing in or if there was no notoriety? We need to be extremely careful about who we follow and why.

Good looks fade, bad financial decisions bring about disaster, and political winds change. Preaching the gospel may go from something desirous and lucrative to something punishable by law. Those who stood in the pulpit because of selfish ambition will certainly fall away under conditions like these.

Likewise, envy can also motivate our clergy’s decisions. If one perceives others in higher positions, nicer locations, or closely aligned with political leaders, he may engage in unspiritual talk about them. James says this attitude certainly doesn’t come from heaven, but from a love of the world.

Those who are in spiritual positions may be motivated from an unspiritual source. Instead of being inspired by a love of God, their hearts may be motivated by the lure of the devil.

Stand back and evaluate those you follow from time to time and make sure their guidance is biblical and godly and that the source of their motivation hasn’t been corrupted by money or fame. If you see them taking a bad turn, talk to them about it. Everyone needs accountability and no one is above temptation.

Heavenly Father, today we take the time to pray for the men who are our pastors, preachers, and teachers of the word. We pray that those we turn to for spiritual guidance will be godly men. Keep them from the wiles of the devil, from envy of others, and from selfish deceit. Fill them with Your wisdom and pure hearts for the preaching of the Gospel of Jesus. Amen.

Tuesday, 6 August 2019

But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. James 3:14

James, still addressing teachers, has just said that the wise among them should “show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom.” Now, he shows a state which is contrary to that by saying, “But if you have bitter envy.” The word translated as “envy” is one which can have a positive or a negative connotation, zelos. It is where the word zealous is derived from. Attaching the word “bitter” to this shows that it is a negative zeal. Instead of good conduct, there is bitter envy.

Along with that, he says, “and self-seeking in your hearts.” The word translated as “self-seeking” signifies seeking followers by the means of gifts. Thus, it is one who is self-seeking or who looks to divide into factions. This then is in contrast to the meekness of wisdom mentioned in the previous verse.

James says that if someone has such attitudes in his heart, he shouldn’t “boast.” This is exactly the type of spirit which disqualifies a person to teach. Rather than boasting, he should get a shovel and learn to dig ditches. Such a person is unqualified for the more perfect duties of teaching the word of God.

James then finishes with the thought that such a person should not “lie against the truth.” His words in this verse will be explained in the next verses. In understanding what they say, it is seen that “the truth” here isn’t just a simple statement concerning general truth. Rather, it is speaking of the truth of God in Christ. That will be made perfectly evident.

Therefore, this person’s “lie against the truth,” is a lie against Christ Jesus – who is the embodiment of truth. It is He who is revealed in Scripture, and this person James speaks of is such a self-seeking teacher who is ultimately lying against. He is engaged in a war to divide the body for self-interest. As the church is the body of Christ (Colossians 1:18), this person will be held accountable for his unholy attempt to draw souls away from what belongs to Christ.

Life application: If we are truly humble in our hearts, then what we do will naturally be for the benefit of others and there won’t be any envy or ambitious intent which satisfies the selfish soul. As Eliphaz the Temanite says in the book of Job –

“For wrath kills a foolish man,
And envy slays a simple one.” Job 5:2

When we are self-seeking, several things occur all in the same action:

1) We dishonor God by attempting to draw recognition, power, and glory to ourselves rather than directing our efforts towards glorifying Him.

2) We dishonor our neighbor who we are trying to subjugate to our own faction, rather than directing him towards the truth of God in Christ. In this, we are not loving our neighbor as ourselves. Rather, we are attempting to rule our neighbor for ourselves.

As James said in Chapter 2, “If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself,’ you do well” (verse 8).

Paul, likewise acknowledges this in Romans 13:10 with, “Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.”

James’ words show that if we act contrary to this, we should neither deny it nor boast about it. What is needed is a heart change and a new attitude. If you are suffering from envy or selfish ambition, you need to lay it before the Lord and seek instead to glorify Him.

Lord Jesus, help us to be satisfied with the life and blessings we have received. Take away our envious eyes and our selfish hearts and replace them with loving hands which build bridges, caring words which edify others, and gentle, thankful spirits which bring honor to You. This we pray that You will be glorified. Amen.